As Cyclone Montha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha brace for extreme weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert. Schools are shut, evacuations are ongoing, and transport services face disruptions. Here’s the latest.
Cyclone Montha Live Updates
1. IMD’s Red Alert: Landfall Expected Soon
The IMD has issued a red alert for coastal Andhra Pradesh (Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram) and Odisha (Ganjam, Puri, Khurda). Landfall is expected between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur by late tomorrow, with wind speeds of 100–120 kmph. Storm surges of 1.5 meters may inundate low-lying areas.
2. Schools Closed, Evacuations Accelerate
- Andhra Pradesh: All schools and colleges shut in vulnerable districts. 200+ relief camps activated.
- Odisha: Holiday declared for schools in Puri, Ganjam, and Khurda. NDRF teams deployed.
- Fishermen warned: No venturing into sea until further notice.
3. Transport Disruptions: Flights, Trains Affected
- Trains canceled: East Coast Railway suspends select services.
- Flight delays likely: Visakhapatnam & Bhubaneswar airports on high alert.
- Road advisories: Coastal highways monitored for flooding.
4. Government Preparedness
- NDRF/SDRF teams stationed in high-risk zones.
- 24/7 helplines activated in both states.
- Central support: Home Ministry closely coordinating relief efforts.
Why Is Cyclone Montha a Major Threat?
- Heavy rainfall: Up to 25 cm in 24 hours, risking flash floods.
- Destructive winds: Uprooting trees, damaging weak infrastructure.
- Coastal flooding: Storm surges threaten villages near the shoreline.
Lessons from Past Cyclones (Fani, Titli)
Improved early warnings and mass evacuations have reduced fatalities, but remote villages remain vulnerable. Authorities urge:
✔ Stay indoors unless instructed to evacuate.
✔ Avoid coastal areas due to storm surges.
✔ Keep emergency kits (food, water, medicines) ready.
Final Advisory
With Cyclone Montha nearing landfall, real-time updates from IMD and state disaster cells are critical. Mint will continue live coverage.
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